Family-Friendly St. Patrick's Day Events in Washington, D.C.

Posted Mar 01, 2019 Things to Do DC/MD/VA Holidays

Put on your best green attire (you don't want to get pinched, after all!) and celebrate St. Patrick's Day with the family at these Washington, D.C. area spots. The emerald hue will light up the streets with local parades, celebrations and even the White House lawn!

The 2019 Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, Alexandria, VA
Held in Old Town Alexandria along historic King Street, the annual Ballyshaners St. Patrick's Day Parade is the town's largest annual family event. This year, the parade is on March 2nd from 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. and will feature four pipe bands, numerous Irish dance schools, Notre Dame Alumni Band, and many other parade units. Arrive early to see the 2019 Fun Dog Show beginning at 11 a.m. with festive animals vying for the titles of "Most St. Paddy's Spirit," "Best Human/Canine Look-Alike" and "Most Creative Costume". Who doesn't love a dog in a costume? 

The Ballyshaners St. Patrick's Day Parade, Photo by Mike Pablo

Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, Manassas, VA
Head down to Center Street in Old Town Manassas on March 9th for the 20th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade. The parade steps off at 11 a.m. with host schools, pipe bands, dance groups, festive floats and members of the Ancient Order of Hibernians spreading St. Patty's Day merriment.

19th Annual Greater Manassas St. Patrick's Day Parade

Ireland on The Wharf at District Wharf - FREE
Head to one of D.C.'s favorite waterfront locations, The Wharf, as they celebrate the luck of the Irish with live music, bagpipers, dance performances and more. The Irish festival takes place on District Pier on March 9th from 1-6 p.m. Parents, enjoy a pint while the kids enjoy the family-friendly entertainment!

Tudor Tots: Shamrocks at Tudor Place
In honor of St. Patrick's Day, SHAMROCKS will be the theme for the March 12th installment of this weekly program for toddlers and their adult companions held every Tuesday at Tudor Place in D.C. Join Tudor Tots at Tudor Place for shamrock inspired sing-alongs, stories and crafts from 10 - 10:45 a.m.

St. Patrick's Day Parade, Gaithersburg, MD
Located at Rio Washingtonian Center, the 19th Annual Gaithersburg St. Patrick's Day Parade begins at 10 a.m on March 16th. Following the parade, there will be live entertainment on the lakefront plaza until 2 p.m. Free parking is available in three garages along Washingtonian Boulevard.

Gaithersburg St. Patrick's Day Parade, Gaithersburg, MD

Shamrock Skate at Cabin John Ice Rink, Rockville, MD
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a spin on the ice! Just wear green on March 17th to skate at Cabin John Ice Rink for a discounted rate of $8 (skate rental included).

Shamrock & Roll St. Patrick’s Day Block Party Loudoun Station, Ashburn, VA 
Have a shamrockin' good time at the 2nd annual Shamrock & Roll, Loudoun County's largest outdoor St. Patrick's Day party! On March 16th, enjoy delicious Irish food for purchase and jam out to great music all day long at Loudoun Station in Ashburn. This event runs from 11 a.m. to well into the wee morning hours, but is kid friendly until 4 p.m.

Explore St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
Originally established in 1794 to serve the Irish immigrants building the White House and the U.S. Capital, St. Patrick's Catholic Church is the oldest Roman Catholic parish in Washington, D.C. Experience the glory of this historic building, Saint statues (including St. Patrick himself), glass mosaics, stained glass windows, the grand organ, and marble designed grand shamrock. The church is open to the public, but be mindful during times of worship. 

St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Washington, D.C.

Check out the White House Fountain
Every year since 2009 the fountain on the north side of the White House flows green in honor of St. Patrick's Day. While we can't guarantee it will happen this year, we are keeping our fingers crossed! 

Shamrock Festival at RFK Stadium, D.C.
Touted as America's largest St. Paddy's Day festival, Shamrock Festival features a full day of music on multiple stages, Irish dance performances, bagpipers, and carnival rides. Much of the event is a big party atmosphere for adults, but there are some kid-friendly carnival rides, food vendors and performances throughout the day. Kids under 12 are admitted free. The shenanigans begin on March 23rd from 12 - 8 p.m. No strollers permitted.

Cook an Irish Meal
After a day of celebrating in town, enjoy an Irish meal at home, such as corned beef and cabbage or Irish Soda Bread. Check out these 36 recipes that will have your family dining Irish style. Make it an event and get the kids involved!

Check out our round up of the best things to do and see with kids in Washington, D.C. this March for even more family fun this month!

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